Myrcene: An Abundant Terpene With Surprising Benefits

It’s high time that terpenes finally get the recognition they deserve. We take a look at Myrcene, one of the primary terpenes in cannabis that helps to stimulate a full course of beneficial effects.

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21 Apr 2017

Although cannabis is most famous for the psychoactive cannabinoid THC and the medically beneficial CBD, it’s recently become evident how important terpenes are to cannabis cultivation and consumption. With over 200 specific varieties appearing in cannabis and thousands more found in other plants and animals, terpenes are multifaceted in their effectiveness. The most abundant terpene myrcene maintains special significance for its medical potential and synergistic capabilities.

WHAT ARE TERPENES?

Terpenes are non-psychoactive, pungent hydrocarbons secreted from hair-like trichomes alongside cannabinoids THC and CBD. Difficult to assess with the naked eye, trichomes are best observed under a magnifying glass.

Peak flowering is when terpenes are most evident, emitting aromas that can be smelled from a distance. Although these powerful scents may not be to the guerilla grower’s liking, terpenes act as natural defence systems for the plants themselves, protecting against diseases and pests while simultaneously luring in pollinators with alluring fragrances.

INTRODUCTION TO MYRCENE

Since myrcene is the terpene most frequently found in cannabis, it is considered one of the ten primary terpenes. Myrcene accounts for the recognizable smell emitted by many popular strains originating from different breeders around the globe. Myrcene is often referred to as one of the most “earthy” smelling varieties, featuring musky notes likened strongly to cloves. Additionally, myrcene contains fruit flavors of red grape and balsamic, with a hint of spice.

MYRCENE: COMPOSITION AND EFFECTS

Myrcene is a monoterpene that is an essential precursor to forming other secondary terpenes and so forth. The compound has been known to compose up to 50% of the total terpene content found in individual strains. Strains containing more than 0.5% Myrcene are most likely to induce sedative effects classically attributed to indicas.

Among myrcene’s potential health benefits include easing the symptoms of chronic pain and inflammation. Terpenes assist cannabinoids in absorbing into the blood brain barrier, binding to receptors in the endocannabinoid system, helping to encourage analgesic responses.

An area of health where myrcene displays especially therapeutic potential is in cancer treatment. CBD naturally suppresses excessive cell proliferation and may aid in reducing the size of tumors.

THE ENTOURAGE EFFECT

What’s more, terpenes are recognized as synergistic compounds that contribute to a complex phytocannabinoid environment. Terpenes work with CBD, THC and other cannabinoids, creating a union of compounds that achieve better results as a group than they would in isolation.

This theory is known as “the entourage effect,” postulating the necessity of keeping the integrity of the natural cannabis building blocks. The results of cannabis as a health supplement are best experienced when administered as whole plant therapies that feature more than just cannabinoids. When culled in high concentrations, terpenes can be harvested as essential oils that are used widely in dietary health and wellness supplements.

THE MANGO MYTH

Once in a blue moon, a longstanding cannabis myth will be proven true thanks to the ever surprising compounds contained in cannabis. At some point throughout history, a rumor arose linking the eating of mangos to an increase in THC potency. This seemingly random comparison may sound like a theory envisioned during a long smoking session, but in fact, it is true!

Mangos, as well as hops, thyme, lemongrass and other plants all contain varying levels of myrcene. Anecdotal research has shown that eating mangos roughly forty-five minutes before consuming cannabis can indeed augment THC with a faster onset of psychoactive effects.

A-Pinene

Anti-InflamatoryBronchodilatorAids MemoryAnti-BacterialAlso found in pine needles

Linalool

AnestheticAnti-ConvulsantAnalgesicAnti-AnxietyAlso found in lavander

Beta-CaryophYllene

Anti-InflamatoryAnalgesicProtects Cells Lining The Digestive TractAlso found in black pepper

Myrcene

Contributes To Sedative Effect Of Strong IndicasSleep AidMuscle RelaxantAlso found in hops

Limonene

Treats Acid RefluxAnti-AnxietyAntidepressantAlso found in citrus

A-Pinene

Anti-InflamatoryBronchodilatorAids MemoryAnti-BacterialAlso found in pine needles

Linalool

AnestheticAnti-ConvulsantAnalgesicAnti-AnxietyAlso found in lavander

Beta-Caryophillene

Anti-InflamatoryAnalgesicProtects Cells Lining The Digestive TractAlso found in black pepper

Myrcene

Contributes To Sedative Effect Of Strong IndicasSleep AidMuscle RelaxantAlso found in hops

Limonene

Treats Acid RefluxAnti-AnxietyAntidepressantAlso found in citrus

POPULAR STRAINS HIGH IN MYRCENE

Famous cannabis strains high in the myrcene terpene represent predominantly well-known indica and hybrid varieties. Studies have shown that myrcene tends to encourage the notorious “couch-lock” induced by the sedative qualities of THC and a high concentration of Myrcene. At the same time, many myrcene strains are known for producing joyful and euphoric effects, in addition to an overall feeling of relaxation.

SPECIAL KUSH 1

Special Kush 1 is a perfect, if not downright flashy example of a myrcene-heavy strain. As an extremely potent hybrid, Special Kush 1 is beloved by sufferers of chronic pain. What’s more, this strain embodies the trademarks of a myrcene aromatic profile with pungent earth and skunk.

WHITE WIDOW

White Widow, a hybrid acclaimed for its euphoric effects is known to contain large quantities of myrcene. The aromas of this breed retain classic “dirt” smells of wood and earth and emit a particularly pungent aroma. White Widow originates as a cross between a South American sativa landrace and a South Indian indica.

SKUNK XL

Legendary hybrid Skunk XL results from Colombian, Afghan and Mexican landraces that give this strain a 50/50 indica/sativa split. Skunk XL is known for its thorough head high that gives way to the relaxing effects of a classic indica. Skunk XL maintains sweet, fruity flavors that expose the natural deep fruit aromas of the myrcene terpene.

MYRCENE: MUCH MORE TO DISCOVER

Despite new evidence supporting the efficacy of terpenes, we still have a lot to learn about how exactly these tiny hydrocarbons can be used therapeutically. Myrcene, with all of its incredible potential, is one of many terpenes that when studied together, may be the key to the future of cannabis medicine.